FileThe apps are being developed for smartphones like the Droid, pictured above.

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- University of Alabama computer science students are developing smartphone apps specifically to help those with health problems or physical disabilities ranging from diabetes to blindness, reports The Crimson White.

Associate professor in computer science Jeff Gray told the CW that the development program helps motivate students to learn more about technology that speaks to their own personal interests and creativity.

Computer engineering associate professor Edward Sazonov, who has worked with two UA students, told the newspaper the apps are helping solve practical problems, including food intake. Kyle Redding's app for Android, called Diet Diary, helps users keep track of calories using senors, the report says.

Michael Robson, a senior majoring in computer science, has an app for people with type 2 diabetes.